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Man Arrested On Arson Charge In Fatal Blaze

SYLVESTER, Ga. (AP) — A 31-year-old man has been accused of setting a blaze in Worth County that killed a paralyzed man who was unable to escape.

Authorities said 31-year-old Michael Carleisle was arrested Saturday and charged with murder and first-degree arson. Investigators have not yet released a motive.

Carleisle is accused of setting fire to the Sylvester home where he lived with at least two other people.

One resident, 48-year-old Gregory Fulghum, died in the blaze. Neighbors told WALB-TV that Fulgum was paralyzed from the neck down. His wife, Betty Booth Jackson, suffered heavy smoke inhalation and burns. She was flown to Doctors Hospital in Augusta.

Authorities said three dogs and two goats owned by the couple were saved. Worth County Animal Control is taking care of the animals free of charge.